Kan-Laon

Infobox Philippine mythology


title = Kan-Laon "The Supreme Ruler" "He Who Is the Ruler of Time"
description = supreme diety
gender = Female
region = Visayas
equivalent = Abba Bathala Gugurang Kabunian Kaptan Lumawig Mangindusa Zeus

Kan-Laon is the name of an ancient Visayan deity. During pre-Hispanic times, the deity was worshiped by the natives as their Supreme Ruler. Kan-Laon means "He Who Is the Ruler Of Time".

Mt. Canlaon, situated on the island of Negros, is the largest active volcano in the Philippines and highest mountain in the Visayas region. [ [http://www.pinoymountaineer.com/2008/02/mt-kanlaon-wasay-guintubdan-trails-2435.html Pinoy Moutaineer: Mount Kanlaon] . Accessed August 28, 2008.] The mountain is said to be where Laon made his presence to the people. In ancient times, native priests ("babaylan") would climb up the mountain and do rituals every good harvest season or when there was a special ceremony. They would also offer gifts as a sign of respect.

Kan-Laon has many counterparts all over the Philippine archipelago. Some of the more popular are Bathala of the Tagalogs, Gugurang of the Bicolanos, and Kabunian of the Ilokanos and Ifugaos.

References